With thanks to @TheWriteReads, @ScotStreetPress and @strangelymagic for my stunning copy and place on the Tour.
Synopsis
Scotland, 158 AD, is a divided country. On one side of the Antonine wall, thirteen-year-old Felix is trying to become a good Roman soldier like his father. On the other, twelve-year old Jinny is vowing revenge on the ‘metal men’ who have invaded her Maetae tribe’s homeland.
At the Maetae’s sacred circle of standing stones, her planned attack on Felix goes badly wrong, awakening a legend that threatens to bring fire and destruction down on them all. Can Jinny and Felix overcome their differences and soothe the stones back to sleep before it’s too late?
Review
A brilliant MG historical fantasy read weaving a rich tapestry of Scottish legends and fascinating history that’s captivating and well-researched. The splendid writing captures the sense of time and place perfectly catapulting the reader into the heart of the action.
Williamson offers terrific characters in Jinny, Felix and Bram. With the split perspective we are able to see events from both sides and realise everything isn’t as clear-cut as it first seems. Each character draws out emotion as they embark on their individual journeys and I found myself rooting for all three!
The wall between the Roman soldiers and the Damnonii tribe highlights the great divide. Relations between the two sides are fragile and the threat of war looms heavy in the air.
Jinny holds on to burning resentment and the need for revenge after a tragic accident. She’s not respected by her fellow villagers and relegated to unimportant tasks.
Felix meanwhile is finding it hard to fit in with the Romans – he is born of both the Romans and Damnonii and is treated badly and viewed as less than the others.
They are both courageous, clever, and trying to prove themselves. As circumstances throw Jinny and Felix together they must put their differences aside and work together to prevent an impending disaster.
A meaningful adventure follows that’s filled with drama, action and loss. The toxic nature of revenge is skilfully explored and its ability to destroy from the inside out. We also see the power of forgiveness to be able to move forward, and how friendship and belonging can be an anchor instead. I loved how the important themes were threaded through the story forming part of it whilst adding to it.
An entertaining and touching tale that will appeal to many readers.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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